Is Dubai apartment mold causing our constant cough?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing non-stop for the past month and I’m starting to worry. I finally pulled our sofa away from the wall in our Deira apartment and found a huge patch of black, fuzzy mold spreading from the corner, probably from a hidden AC leak. It smells really damp and earthy. Could this be the reason for our constant sore throats and headaches, and what’s the safest way to get it cleaned here?
Posted by Samantha Davis
Asked on May 20, 2026 2:45 pm
Yes, the black mold you found is very likely the cause of your family's persistent coughs, sore throats, and headaches. In Dubai's high humidity, hidden AC condensation leaks are a primary cause of this issue, creating the damp conditions mold needs to thrive. The musty smell confirms active microbial growth, and its proximity to your living space means you are constantly breathing in its spores.

Do not attempt to clean this yourself. Disturbing a large patch releases a high concentration of spores into the air, which can worsen respiratory symptoms. Standard cleaning agents like bleach often fail to address the root moisture problem and can damage building materials.

The safest approach is a professional assessment. A certified inspector can identify the exact mold species—many types are black, and not all are the same—and use moisture meters to pinpoint the AC leak's source. Reputable companies in Dubai will provide a remediation plan that includes containment of the area, HEPA-filtered air scrubbing to capture spores, and proper disposal of contaminated materials. The critical final step is a clearance test from an independent lab to confirm the air quality is safe before reoccupying the space.

Until it's addressed, improve ventilation in the room as much as possible and consider using a dehumidifier to help lower the moisture level that the mold is feeding on.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 20, 2026 6:37 pm